Things to do in Ayía Varvára

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Ayía Varvára must see attractions

1. Heraklion Port

Sit on a harbor wall at Heraklion Port and watch fishing boats bobbing on the sparkling Cretan waters. Visit the ancient fort that protected the harbor and see the old walls that have stood here for over 400 years. Sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants near the water’s edge. Watch the coming and going of the small ferries that run between the Greek islands or book a passage on one and enjoy a daytrip away from the mainland.
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Heraklion Port showing a marina

2. Palace of Knossos

Walk through the chambers of Minoan kings and queens at Knossos and marvel at the grandeur of the ancient buildings. Explore the labyrinthine layout and learn the story of what happened to the mythical architect, Daedalus. Take a tour to find out what treasures have been discovered here since excavations began.
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Take a tour around one of Europe’s most spectacular archaeological sites, where Greek myths have been made and great treasures discovered.

3. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

View over 5,500 years of pottery, artwork, tools and weapons when you visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Plan to spend time in the Minoan exhibit, which is widely acknowledged as being the best of its kind in the world. Discover Neolithic tools and statues, objects traded with the Egyptians and notable Roman artworks and frescoes too.
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum showing street scenes

4. Historical Museum of Crete

Pay a visit to the Historical Museum of Crete and chart the city’s fascinating past from early Christian times through to the modern day. View spectacular Byzantine artwork, visit the writing room of one of Greece’s most famous literary heroes and learn about the Cretan struggle for independence. See how the folk arts of the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman periods have all influenced each other. Don’t miss the museum’s prize attractions: two paintings by the great Spanish Renaissance artist Doménikos Theotokópoulos, better known as El Greco.
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Historical Museum of Crete featuring street scenes

5. Koules Fortress

Stand inside Koules Fortress and look out across the Heraklion harbor just as sentries who guarded the city from attack over 500 years ago would have done. Visit the soldiers’ barracks and prison and see where the cannons were positioned to fire upon approaching enemy vessels. Don’t miss the impressive marble reliefs depicting St. Mark’s lion, the symbol of Venice, on three of the walls of the fortress.
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Koules Fortress showing a castle and heritage architecture

What to do in Ayía Varvára

Discover the most popular places to visit in Ayía Varvára

Gortys

Learn about the local history of Gortyna when you spend time at Gortys. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Gortys

Koudoumas Monastery

You can find out about the history of Gortyna when you stop by Koudoumas Monastery. Amble around the area's beaches or experience its museums.

Koudoumas Monastery

Museum of Messara

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Museum of Messara during your trip to Ambeloúzos. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Museum of Messara

Trypiti Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Trypiti Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Gortyna. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Trypiti Beach

Rouvas Gorge

Explore the great outdoors at Rouvas Gorge, a lovely green space in Gortyna. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Rouvas Gorge

Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos

You can learn about the history of Gortyna with a visit to Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos. Stroll along the beaches or experience the area's museums.

Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos

Canyon Saint Sava

You can take time to visit Canyon Saint Sava during your travels to Gortyna. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Canyon Saint Sava

Elygiá

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Elygiá during your trip to Gortyna? Amble around the area's beaches or experience its museums.

Elygiá

Katárti

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Katárti during your trip to Gortyna? Amble around the area's beaches or experience its museums.

Katárti

Frequently asked questions

Is Ayía Varvára worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or sample unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there's no shortage of things to do in Ayía Varvára.
How do I spend a day in Ayía Varvára?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museum of Messara and Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos. Then, check out different parts of Ayía Varvára for tasty eats and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ayía Varvára?
Don't leave without checking out Museum of Messara, rated the top tourist attraction in Ayía Varvára.
Is three days enough to stay in Ayía Varvára?
If you only want to see the most popular sights, three days will be plenty of time for a break in Ayía Varvára. Book for a week or longer for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby highlights and explore off the beaten path.
What are some activities to do in Ayía Varvára with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Check out our ideas for what to do in Ayía Varvára with kids.

What to do in Ayía Varvára for adults?
Adults of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Ayía Varvára. Whether you're into history, art, outdoor activities or just love discovering new destinations, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Ayía Varvára?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Ayía Varvára is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without getting your cash out. Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.